The United States strongly condemns the assassination of Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif.

WASHINGTON -The US strongly denounced the death of Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif in Kenya on Monday.

While addressing reporters in Washington, US State Department spokeswoman Ned Price stated, “We are extremely grieved by the loss of Arshad Sharif.” He sent his sympathies to Arshad’s family and loved ones, as well as to everyone who knew him.

The US State Department has asked that the Kenyan government conduct a thorough inquiry into Arshad Sharif’s killing. He stated that while we do not know all of the circumstances surrounding his death at this time, we do demand a thorough inquiry.

Ned Price stated that we firmly support the protection of journalists and the right to free speech, and that USAID has a variety of initiatives in place to engage with governments throughout the world to strengthen those rights and independent media.

He stated that it was apparent from his work that Arshad Sharif was committed to the fundamental right to free expression. “His work was well-known around the world,” he continued.